July 15, 2013

TCU product Matt Carpenter soaking in All-Star experience

Matt Carpenter left TCU in 2009 as the school's all-time leader in games played (241) and at-bats (843). He also ranks among the all-time leaders in hits, doubles and walks.

The St. Louis Cardinals took him in the 13th round of the 2009 First-Year Player Draft, and gave him a $1,000 signing bonus. Carpenter joked that it was probably more around $600 after taxes, and was used as gas money.

To say the least, it's been quite a journey to the big leagues and now the All-Star Game for Carpenter, who started playing second base for the Cardinals this season. He credited his time at TCU as a pivotal moment in his baseball career.

Our columnist, Gil LeBreton, wrote about it here, and Carpenter addressed it briefly during Monday's media availability.

"It’s been a crazy ride and I’m real happy with how it played
out," Carpenter said. "My college career was a huge part of my life. I spent five
years at TCU and no doubt I wouldn’t be the type of player I am today if I didn’t
have that experience.

"Fort Worth is like a second home to me. Actually, me and my
wife are looking to move there this off-season. We love TCU, and I can’t say enough
good things about it."

As far as the influence TCU coach Jim Schlossnagle had on him, Carpenter said: "He was huge. He’s like a father figure in
my life. He’s taught me a lot along the way. We have a great relationship and
playing under him for five years, he had a big part in the success that I’ve
had and everything that has happened along the way."